"I am so glad that I was able to meet Rocky Arroyo in 2008 and on subsequent occasions at NMAA State Tournament banquets and at NMAA headquarters where we worked together on a long interview of his life and times. His easy going manner and patience as we talked for more than an hour on at least three occasions made the interviews pleasurable. The material I collected enabled me to write the nomination for the New Mexico Sports Hall of Fame, and was I tickled when he was elected to that body that includes some of his great friends, I'm sure, as well as Tommy McDonald, the NFL running back who played for Highland High against Rocky with Our Lady of Sorrows winning by two points after playing three games in thirty hours. The other two opponents were St. Mary's and Albuquerque High. I never saw Rocky's teams play...I was but 14 in 1951, but my best friend, Tobias Duran, now a Ph.D., at UNM, who sat in on one of the interviews as the Director of Regional Studies at UNM, was able to attend. In fact, Tobias, my next door neighbor, and classmate at Ernie Pyle Jr. High in the South Valley, walked from the school to Highland High to see the big game against McDonald and Company. Tobias and I both read the Journal even in junior high, and followed closely, both pulling for the Mustangs against Albuquerque schools, especially Highland."

"Lee and all the Arroyo family, my deepest condolences on the death of Rocky. He had an incredible life and most especially an incredible family. It was so good to see all the faces of my childhood friends and to meet Chris and Stephany as well. So many memories of all the things we used to do together came to mind and the stories shared with my family of all the good times and laughter we all shared. Life takes us all on different paths but the memories of the past can never be erased. Prayers to all of you as you go forward in your life without your beloved husband Lee and your Dad Arroyo family."

"My thoughts and prayers go out to the Arroyos as they once again have to deal with a great loss. I also must say to my sister-in-law Kathy who I has been my sister since I was seven years old, thank you for sharing your family with mine! Your Dad always made me smile and when I became a teacher he congratulated me on my choice and always took an interest in what I was going on in my class. He also made my husband a fellow athlete, coach, and competitor feel welcome and valued! Thank you "Rocky" you will be missed!"

"My condolences to all the family. I had the pleasure of growing up down the street from the Arroyos on Speronelli. Whenever I saw Mr. Arroyo he was always upbeat and quick to smile. I could tell he loved all his family very much. He left a legacy and much more to his family.

I will miss the services and wish I could see the family and give hugs. Just know you are in my prayers."

"Our sincerest Sympathies to the Arroyo Families. I remember Rocky and Alice coming to spaghetti dinners at my parents home (John and Adelaide Smatana) back in their officiating days. What a group. Incredible memories. We are so sorry to have lost such a Great Guy. Love and Prayers from the Smatana Families."

"Rocky lived life to the fullest, but besides that, he was a kind and gentle man to everyone. May God help the enormous hole(s) left in the hearts of his beloved family. He has endured much himself and now his spirit is free. Much love to the family.